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Upon Request Disposable Foodware

Protect our Ocean, Uphold Maui's Upon Request Law

  • On March 1 2022, Maui County Ordinance 5084 went into effect, banning single-use plastic in food service establishments. It restricts the sale and use of disposable plastic items like food containers, cups, forks, spoons, knives, and straws.
  • Food service establishments must also follow an “upon request” practice with all disposable utensils and straws. They can only provide these items if a customer requests them.
  • Food service establishments cannot supply take-out accessories in every order automatically. Staff are allowed to ask customers if these items are needed, and businesses are allowed to set up a “self serve” station for customers to help themselves.
Did you know? Restaurants can actually save money by only offering utensils and/or straws upon request. The Tiny Turtle, a Surfrider Ocean Friendly Restaurant in Cocoa Beach, Florida saves over $3,000 a year by providing paper straws upon request.
Read the Case Study
Upon Request Sign for RAP Maui Page

We can all do our part to uphold Maui Ordinance 5084 and reduce our plastic footprint:

Business owners should be informed of the policy and train all their staff to comply. They can also choose better take-out materials that do not include plastic or bioplastic, such as paper or bamboo, or even provide incentives for customers to bring their own reusable straws, utensils, or containers.
 
 
Staff should adjust their habits of providing utensils and/or straws automatically, and instead set a new standard of avoiding these items unless requested.
 
 
Customers can also help by bringing their own reusable foodware – such as cups, thermoses, straws, utensils, or food containers – for their take-out orders as much as possible. If asked, customers can always say “no” to disposable utensils or straws and opt for their own instead. If straws or utensils are accidentally provided, customers can kindly return them.

 

Helpful Resources

Maui DIY Utensil Kit

DIY Utensil Kit

Learn how to create your own utensil kit so you can say no to disposable utensils and yes to reusable utensils when on the go!

Download
OFR Staff Training Resource

Staff Plastic Reduction Tips

Tips for restaurant staff to give out less disposable foodware and save money! 8.5 x 11

Download
Upon Request One Pager for RAP Maui Page

Upon Request One Pager

A one-pager that breaks down the law and why it is good for business and our ocean. 8.5 x 11

Download
Screenshot 2025-07-23 at 9.39.17 AM

Upon Request Bill Insert

A bill insert stating that you only offer accessory items upon request. 2.75 x 4.25

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Screenshot 2025-07-23 at 10.52.18 AM

Upon Request Sign

A sign to display reminding customers of the upon request law. 8.5 x 11

Download